Varanasi Spiritual Journey

Day 1: Arrive at Delhi by your scheduled flight. Our services begin here. You are greeted at the airport by our Travel Facilitator, and then ushered to a chauffeur driven vehicle. You are then driven to your hotel and check in. The next days’ plans are briefly reviewed and travel documents such as your air tickets and hotel vouchers will be handed over to you.

Day 2: Delhi. Start your exploration of India with a city tour of Old Delhi. Drive, walk and ride through the ancient city’s streets and alleys; explore crowded and colorful bazaars. This excursion includes an exploration of the Jama Masjid (1650 AD), the largest mosque in India. The Masjid (Mosque) is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and is constructed of red sandstone and white marble. It is an active place of worship and its courtyard can hold 25,000 worshippers. You continue on to the amazing Red Fort that was finished a decade before the mosque. Both structures were built by Shah Jahan, the emperor that created the Taj Mahal. The great city inside the massive sandstone walls of the Red Fort offers visitors a large number of architectural and historical attractions; it was once known as the 8^th wonder of the world. The Red Fort was the seat of the Mughal Empire for more than two hundred and fifty years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an amazing example of a blend of Persian, Indian, and European architecture. You will also experience a fascinating rickshaw ride in the ancient alleys of the crowded and colorful bazaar at Chandni Chowk.
There is a break for lunch.
Afternoon – Enjoy a city tour of New Delhi. This excursion begins with the awe-inspiring Qutab Minar (1193 A.D.). This 239 ft tall medieval tower is a symbol of victory and a beautiful example of Persian architecture from that period. There is a winding stairway inside the tower that goes up all the way to the balcony at the very top of the tower – unfortunately they are no longer accessible for visitors. The Qutab Minar and its Monuments are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Within the Qutab complex, amidst the ruins of the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, stands one of the legendary Ashoka Pillars. This large iron pillar has withstood the ravages of Delhi’s weather (and recent pollution) and has not rusted in over 1500 years. After the Qutab complex you will be driven to visit the magnificent tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Delhi has such an abundance of amazing monuments that this Tomb Complex (1562 A.D.) does not quite get the acclaim that it deserves. It is Delhi’s third UNESCO World Heritage Site and its amazing architecture and the elaborate gardens (all currently undergoing restoration) will captivate you.
From the tomb you will proceed on a drive to Lutyens’ New Delhi. Time permitting, this drive will include photo opportunities at some of the following attractions – the exterior of the massive and awe-inspiring Rashtrapati Bhawan (known as Viceroy’s House during the British era), Delhi’s landmark structure India Gate, a golden domed Sikh Temple (Bangla Sahib Gurudwara), & the Birla Temple. The last part of this excursion is a drive through Connaught Place, which is New Delhi’s downtown.

Day 3: Delhi – Varanasi. You are assisted with your check out from hotel and drive to airport to board the morning flight to Varanasi. You are greeted at the Varanasi airport and you are driven to your hotel and check in.
Afternoon – Proceed for a city tour of Varanasi. This includes visits to the numerous temples that dot the banks of the holy river. You will be able to walk through the narrow lanes and stop by at the bazaars to have a look at, among other things, glorious examples of one of the world’s finest material – Banaras silks.
Sunset cruise on the Ganga – cruise on the Ganga at sunset and have a grandstand view of the ancient prayer and oil lamp ceremonies, as hundreds of lamps are sent floating on the holy river as the sun sets.

Day 4: Varanasi. Early morning boat cruise on the river Ganges – duration about two hours – The best time to visit the Ghats is dawn when pilgrims take their morning dip. The most famous Ghat is the Dasadwamedh Ghat from where we begin this tour. Enjoy the boat ride while looking out for the people on the Ghats – the women bathing discreetly in their sarees, the young men displaying prowess in yogic postures, & the Brahmin priests offering prayers.
Return to your hotel to freshen up and breakfast.
Afternoon – Proceed for a tour of Sarnath. Explore the monuments of this holy city, including the ancient Stupa that is located near the spot where the Buddha preached his first few sermons.

Day 5: Varanasi – Khajuraho. Check out of your hotel and board the  flight to Khajuraho. You are greeted at the Khajuraho airport on arrival and then driven to your hotel and check in.

Late afternoon – Start your tour of the temples. These magnificent examples of Hindu religious art were constructed over 1000 years ago. The detailed artistry of the sculptures and their incredible volume are both beyond explanation.

Day 6: Khajuraho – Delhi – International Flight. Check out of your hotel in the morning and drive to airport to board the flight to Delhi. You are greeted at the Delhi airport on your arrival. This is a good time to do any last minute shopping or dining.
Your vehicle and chauffeur stay with you until you are driven to airport to board your international flight.
Our services end at Delhi airport.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Tour Features